Natural splendor a great gift

By Fran Stodolak|Special to the Independent

Posted 7/15/09

As I write this column from downtown scenic Omer, the smallest city in the beautiful state of Michigan, it hit me – I have an idea for you to enjoy a sizzling summer day, with your elderly neighbor – Jump in the car and take a scenic tour, enjoy the splendor of our great state.

The shoreline of Saginaw Bay is a wonderful place for outdoor activities. Fishing from a boat or from land is always exciting, yet relaxing too. You never know what you are going to catch. Area beaches are among the best in the state. Home to many species of wildlife, the shoreline is a utopia to the bird watcher.

Birds are abundant, watching those birds through a scope or a powerful set of binoculars is enough to stimulate the senses. Bird watching has been a favored activity for a great many people. For these people, sometimes known as “birders,” sighting a great number of birds, or birds out of their usual habitat, is a thrill.

There’s no need to be extravagant, a good starter set of binoculars can be acquired at a minimal cost, at local department or sporting goods stores.

Birding can be done while hiking, picnicking, or from a vehicle. In fact, a slow moving vehicle makes an excellent blind because birds are used to them. So, get off your duff and grab a friend (like your elderly neighbor), go for a slow ride down the back road and/or the shoreline. Beautiful coastal highway US-23 is a nice path to take, counting how many different birds you can spot on your way to one of our local ice cream parlors.

Canada geese are a common sight along the shore of Saginaw Bay or Lake Huron. Also you could get a glimpse of a great blue heron, and the yearly residents cardinals and blue jays. Once in a while you get the empowering sight of our U.S. emblem, the magnificent eagle soaring high in the sky.

So take this opportunity, to get out of the house and take in some fresh air. I encourage you to grab mom, auntie, or your neighborly senior and go for a ride. Hope you have a great time and day!!!